Tomorrow (Sunday), I'm flying to Panama City for meetings beginning on Monday with school officials and a number of church partners.

I'm fully committed to this project. That's why I'm going now, to finalize plans so I can get our teams moving. The total cost through the summer could exceed $200,000, but more urgently we need support right now to keep our "Beacon Of Hope" long-term kitchen on track for a June 1 opening.

Specifically, we still need at least about $20,000 before the end of the month. This is one of the largest long-term recovery projects we have attempted, and I need the help of friends like you. Please prayerfully consider what you can do, and then go here to make your tax-deductible gift to support Mercy Chefs as we establish this "Beacon Of Hope" in Florida and continue other vital efforts.

And please see my report here.

God bless,

Gary LeBlanc

P.S. I'm stepping out in faith to help meet the critical need on the Florida Panhandle. More than 5,000 children are now homeless as their families have been displaced due to the storm. Please help us get our "Beacon Of Hope" kitchen established. Go here: